1A [ome OP) ae EY et) eeend of the Five Rings The Way o¢ the Wole . “You call me a masterless man. You are wrong. I am my own master.” - Dairya Legend of the Five Rings, The Five Rings Symbol, The Emerald Empire of Rokugan, and Way of the Wolf se tress f Wir ofthe Conca Prel i USA. Lage of he Fe Rings © and ™ 200 We othe Castee TT SES TESTES Credhts WritTEN By Rich WuLF AND SHawn CARMAN AppiTionat Mareriat by Ree SoEspEe Game System By Davip WiLLiAms AND JoHN Wick Cover ARTWORK: CARL FRANK InTERIOR ARTWORK: CARL FRANK, EDWARD JAMES KRINGS AND DANIEL MOoENsTER ‘Map oF Nanas Mura: DANIEL MOENSTER Artwork Prepress: BRENDON GOODYEAR ArT DIRECTOR: 11M PINTO Line Epitor: DJ. TRINDLE Eprvne: Janice Seicars, DJ. TRINDLE Interior Layout: Steve HoucH Rich would like to thank... Ree and DJ. for giving me this chance, and all the other ronin who helped me get here ~ Mom, Dom, and all my friends at Rokugan 2000. Oh yeah, and Morito Tokei, the character who brought me to Rokugan. If not for him, fd probably be an astronomer right now. Whew! Ree would like to thank the Legion of the Wolf for the huge banner that graces her office wall,| - Table o¢ Contents al Drologie ai si cea swhlooan aes semanas ee 4 Chagter One: The Uingettered Ronn ....... § Chapter Tho: The Arstory of the Wave Men . 18 Chapter Three Character so... cece eee MG Chapter Four: Who's Who... eee eee 62 Chayter Five: Character Templates ......... 4 Appendx T: Lage on the Waves ...... 6. 100 Aggendx Ts Toth oie eee eee 106 Appendx TT: Mage oo... cece eee e eee 18 Append TV: Mascellaneows .... 6.6... 7 Map o¢ the Nanasf Mitta... ss. cece eee 121 Roni Character Sheets oo... eee e eee 125Prologue This book takes place two years after the Scorpion Clan Coup. thad been three days since life as he knew it had ended Taurui turned back to look at the castle a final time. Though its walls were intact, Shiro Nanbu had fallen, Not a blow had been struck in anger. No arrow had been loosed. No war had been fought, but his family was no more. The holdings and lands of the Nanbu had been seized by the Emperor. The banners that once hung upon the walls had been removed, He turned toward the cast road and began his journey. —e— ‘Truthfully, the Nanbu had never been an important family. Never numbering more than @ dozen samurai, they were insignificant in the ‘greater political schemes of the Emerald Empire Most samurai did not even know of their existence. Even their masters, the Soshi, considered them minor vassals. After the fll of the Scorpion the Imperial Legions had run rampant across the Empire hunting Scorpion traitors. Even then, it had taken quite some time for anyone to recall the Nanbu family’s existence. ‘The Nanbu had nothing to do with Shojus coup; they were so unimportant they had not been considered to participate. The Nanbu knew it made no difference. The Legions would come fone day, and they would bring the Emperors justice with them, The Nanbu were living on borrowed time and when Taurui looked upon the face of Tsuchiya, his uncle and daimyo, he could see the dead resignation that lay there. When the Imperial Legions arrived. Taurus heart filled with fear. He had never seen real combat. The Nanbu bushi were few and the Legion were, well, a Legion. There was no chance for survival, only a chance to die with honor All ‘of Trurui life he had been told that an honorable death was the greatest fate a samurai could ask for, but to look into the eyes of little Kochohime, to know he would never lve to see his daughter grow to become a woman, he was no longer certain, He steeled himself for the inevitable and promised that, if nothing else, they would not take his daughter twas then that Nanbu Tsuchiya stepped out of the gates to meet the Legion. Tzurui would never forget that moment. His uncle’ clear, certain gaze ‘would ever be pressed into his memory. It was the bravest thing he had seen in his life. Some of the other bushi attempted to step forth and join ‘Touchiya, but the old samurai turned witha quiet smile and forbade them. Tzurui had not moved to join his master. hurt his heart to remember The Imperial herald turned his horse about and fixed an angry gaze on the figure that had stepped out of the caste gates. An Imperial archer in the front ranks even drew his bow, preparing to slay the daimyo where he stood “Lam ‘Tsuchiya, daimyo of Shiro Nanbu.* ‘Tsuchiya said clearly, bowing his head, “We come to determine your loyalties, Sos the legionnaire announced. Tsuchiya said nothing, He simply fell to his knees, pressing his face to the earth. “I am no Soshi. My people had ‘no part in the Coup” "Easy to say.” the soldier retorted. “Perhaps ‘you should have considered your love for peace before Otosan Uchi fell” The soldiers eyes sleamed with menace. Tzurui knew, they all knew, their fates hinged upon the next few moments. “The fault is my own,” Tsuchiya replied calmly. He sat back upon his heels, but kept his eyes downcest. “Punish not a man’s family for his crimes. I am ready to prove my sincerity’ ‘Tsuchiya moved his arm slightly to reveal the sword he wore. He wore only the wakizashi, and his kimono was a stark white. ‘The color of death. The blade of seppuku.‘The herald seemed to hesitate. “You shall have your chance, suchiya-san” said a deep voice from the midst of the ranks. A soldier in brilliant golden armor rode forward. The commander of the Legion. “I am Mats Chokoku,” the soldier said, “and I would be your second” ‘Tsuchiya bowed his head again. The Lion was doing him a great honor to permit his request, much less to participate. Tsuchiya recognized his gesture gratefully He rose as two soldiers and a shugenja approached to lead him ava. Oe ‘The ceremony had gone swiftly. Only a handful of family members and Chokoku's personal guard were allowed to observe the final ‘moments. Taurui was among them, though he did not wish to watch his uncle die. To his credit, Tsuchiya did not cry out as he drew the blade across his belly His wife let no grief mar her face. Chokoku drew his katana and held the blade high, pausing for the briefest moment to let his eyes flicker across the gath ly members. ‘A inal stroke, and the honor of the Nanbu was clean. Tuurui_ now stood on the road outside what had once been Shiro Nanbu. Chokoku had spared the family and their retainers, but his orders were ear. The holdings of the family were to be seized, and the castle itself was to become a garrison, As for the remaining Nanbu, they were now ronin, samurai with no masters. What would become of them? It was no longer Chokoku's concern so long as they left the province as ordered. No doubt most would fall to petty crime The life ofa ronin was difficult and banditry came easily to trained bushi PronTi oad! ‘Tauruigritted his teeth in disgust. It all seemed so pointless. Nanbu Tsuchiya was the finest man he had ever known. He could not have asked for ‘a wiser and more honorable lord. And now he was dead. For what? For Bayushi Shoju’s foolish ambitions. For a war that had ended before it began. For the Emperors bloody vengeance. “Where do we go now, father?” asked a small voice. “We will visit your mother” he said, resting a hand on her shoulder. "Then we will find a new home." In his heart he knew it was a lie. The Emperor’ hatred of Scorpions and all who served them was well known, It made no difference that ‘Tourui had lived all of his life in this valley, had never known a Bayushi besides the tax collector, and had only journeyed to Ryoko Owari once. To the Empire, he was a Scorpion. Few other daimyo ‘would be willing to risk the Hanteis disfavor by taking him in. He lifted Kochohime into his arms and walked. He hoped he could find a place for them ‘quickly. Kochohime was frail girl, much like her ‘mother. She would not survive long on the road. ‘Taurui turned off on a small path that led to a single cherry tree and the Nanbu family shrine. Long ago, the tree had been a gift from the daimyo of the Soshi, a symbol of the Scorpion’s Protection. The tree looked slightly twisted and withered, and Tzurai eould not push away the ‘omen. The tree was surrounded by square white stones, memorials to those that had passed into the next world, Tazurui set Kochohime down gently and took a dipper from a barrel of purified water, pouring it over the stone he knew so well. His eyes were red, but he did not cry. Samurai did not cry, not even ronin, “Konichiwa, mother,” Kochohime said brightly. The girl always spoke as if her mother was alive, and as if her mother spoke back Though it disturbed him slightly, Trurui never reprimanded her. He could not find it in his heart to deny the girl her only connection with her mother. Sometimes, he was jealous. He wished he could hear her now. She would know what to do. ‘Tourui said his final goodbyes, then turned to pray atthe shrine, leaving Kochohime to continue whispering to her mother. He prayed to Jizo, Fortune of Mercy. He prayed to his ancestors. He called out to the spirit of Tsuchiya, begging forgiveness for his eowardice and promising thathis sacrifice would not be in vain. He prayed for ‘ mirade to save his daughter from this ie. “Taurui-sama” said a voice from behind ‘Taurui turned to see a broad shouldered man in shabby robes of deep brown. “Brother Hanoshi he said, bowing as he rose and walked out to the road. “It is good to see you, friend” “heard what happened,” the monk said grimly. “Tsuchiya was a good man, He will be remembered” ‘Tuurui frowned and shook his head. “Shiro Nanbu was seized. My family are outcasts. We have no home. My uncle died for nothing” Hanoshi smiled. “Really” he asked, and gestured toward the shrine, where the litle gil still crouched whispering happily. “Tell me, something, Teurui. Can you look into your daughter’ eyes and tell me that? Do you honestly believe that her death would have been a better fate? The Fortunes have given you a second chance, my friend, Do not spurn it” “A poor second chance,” Teurui said quietly. “She is a weak girl. She will not live long on the toad’ “What of the monastery?” Hanoshi offered. “There is room for her there” “Lcould not impose,” Tzurui huffed, “She is my responsibilty” “And itis our responsibility to help those in need,” Hanoshi replied kindly. “The Brotherhood will protect her” ‘Taurui was quiet fora long time. “We can protect you, as well” Hanoshi added. “There are many fates for masterless samurai, You could do worse than serving Shinsei, We could use a pious man like you” Teurui looked away. “Pious, perhaps, but not brave” “Excuse me” “Twas born a samural.” Taurui said. “When my bravery was tested | fale. I did not step forward to help my master when others would. I fear in my heart that it was my cowardice in that moment that brought this fate. 1 must prove my valor before my soul can be at rest. I cannot escape from my destiny” Heanoshi nodded, “I understand. I do not think 1 agree, but I understand. You know the life that you resign yourself to?” “Yes. I will become a soldier of fortune, There is a war brewing, to the east. There will be a ‘market for mercenaries. I should be able to find work there” “Tourui, you have never been in a war” Heanoshi said. ‘Taurui tuned to the monk, his eyes intense. “War is where I belong. Will I find courage in a monastery?” You might be surprised” Hanoshi chuckled “But suit yourself. If you ever change your mind, you will always have a place with us” “Taurui nodded, then turned to look upon his daughter. She was seated crosslegged on the ground, completely engrossed in conversation with her mother’s grave. He fet a lump grow in his throat. He knew he could not bring her, but could not bear to leave her behind, She was all he had left. She was his life. “L will aocept no charity” he sald. “I insist on being kept abreast of her expenses and will repay ‘every bit in full” “Of course,” Hanoshi nodded, not intending to force the matter “L will go now,” Tauri said. “You will explain this to Kochohime?” “You do not wish to say good-bye?” Hanoshi asked, surprised ‘Taurui turned to his fiend, and there were tears in his eyes now. “I cannot. If did, I would be tempted not to leave her. I know that I am ‘weak. Please help me in this, Hanoshi” Hanoshi nodded, turning aside so that he ‘would not see his friends griel When he looked back again, Teurui had set off down the road. Alone.The following are ut few ofthe indignities iscorforts that 2 ronin ave to look forward to: 8A soca no Boi nay seem obvious, but “think about it. No powerful Telatves to turn to when things go awry. No dan fo stand by your ‘side when the law turns you. No kinsmen to 'you abreast of what’ ning inthe court. No ‘ne to watch your back 2.No Holdings ~ A ‘ean walk into his in his tertitory ‘and demand room and a its his right. Not eronin. The ronin may be lucky if he's allowed to pay for rice. Guat tn Proven Annocent - Ronin are Piltaieecisc Aas a culty. Most magistrates fasume wandering “ronin to be bandits or At best, the law will _Keep a sharp eye on the nin, oF insist that he leave FROM THE JouRNAL OF IkOMA HIDEMASA Tam not an old man, but {have many tales. In my waning hours, when I know that death is ‘upon me, let tis be the one that is tol, I is a tale of eourage, of nobility, of sacrifice. It isa tale of hhow, in the end, @ great hero was able to conquer the most cowardly and dishonorable of enemies. ‘That ‘hero’ was a farmer. ‘That ‘enemy’ was myself ‘am Ikoma Hidemasa. 1 am, and will ever consider myself, a Lion. Not even the Emperor can take that away. None can steal a man’s honor but himsel. Thad disgraced myself in the court. made a foolish quip atthe expense of my master’ rival, a Crane I believed to be a weakling. When blades were drawn and the Crane's eyes met mine, 1 knew that I would die, I was afraid, [who knew no fear. Iran, leaving behind my name, my clan, everything that had been important, only to save my life, which only became more worthless for the lack of the rest. 1 do not remember how long I ran. became ronin, a lone wolf working for merchants to earn ‘enough koku to survive. I loaded wagons. 1 killed men for rice I dirted my hands with the darkest labors. Arrogance of arrogance, I yet carried the ddaisho that was my birthright, and the great scroll, Leadership, that was my inheritance. In my initial Hight, my first impulse had been to sell it In time, as my memories of home began to fall away, I clung to it tenuously. I never opened it. never dared. I knew I was not worthy. I simply carried it, and hoped...for what? When the Otaku magistrate found me, truth to tel, Twas relieve. I said, “This is the end. I can stop running and meet the death I deserve! How surprised I was when she galloped past with a pack of bandits on her heels! I followed as best I could on foot. Luckily, the bandits did not notice me beside such a tempting quarry. Soon 1 arrived at a farmer’ village, thickly barricaded and ready for war. The Otaku rode through the ‘gates and the bandits turned aside, forced back by the pikes and arrows ofthe peasants. 1 approached cautiously, wondering what could be transpiring. The peasants were few, and T counted only five true bushi besides the Otaku, all ronin. They had no hope against the horde that besieged them. What was the point of fighting? In ‘my mind, they should have run. If it were me, ‘would have gathered all I could and run like the wind. If it were me. But it was not Why were these simple folk, ronin, farmers, and a single true samural any different from myself? I was a Lion! Wasn't 1? Hed I fallen so far? In that instant, my decision was made. I ould no longer hide in cowardice while “lesser” creatures sacrificed their ives. | approached the village, offering my services to their cause. They were suspicious, especially the Otaku, but when I claimed my heritage as an tkoma and they saw the copy of Leadership that I carried, they decided that I could not be other than what I claimed Tronic. Using the fruits of my theft to prove the truth of my being I promised this would be my final erime, (Over the next week, I saw fiercr battle than in my entire life combined. I saw peasants learn to ‘wield a spear equal to the skill of any samurai in half the time. 1 saw the selfless bravery of ronin, warriors who have none to answer to but themselves. I know well what an unforgiving critic the self can be. I was shamed by such slorious company. 1 saw that there was one weapon that these ‘men and women had that all the bandit hordes in Rokugan could not steal away. It was a weapon I had cast away long ago. In the peasant village, I learned how to cary it once again, I learned to find hope. ‘To my surprise, that hope increased in my presence and was focused upon me. To the villagers, I was a Lion. A symbol of courage,honor, and leadership. To my horror, 1 realized that even the Otaku, not a ronin at all, was soon deferring to me in matters of the village's defense and the training. {had become more than just a mere observer. I had become their leader. Their hopes, the dreams, their survival depended upon me. If| was lax, the defenses would crumble. If 1 ‘was cowardly, the village would fall If 1 was ‘weak, the village would de was not lax. 1 was not cowardly. |Lwas not weak. ‘The bandits came in force as the first winter snows fell had never before fought a battle in winter but I tell you thatthe hellish pits of Jigoku cannot be much different from what I saw on that day. The snow became a bitter pink sludge as the villagers and bandits fell dead in heaps all around re. I saw the five ronin fall 1 saw the Otaku's horse fight on after its leader tumbled tothe earth with @ dozen arrows in her back. I saw peasants ‘wearing the armor of fallen samurai, fighting with a ferocious bravery as they clung to their meager birthright. I remember the heat of the battle, standing back to back with one of the youngest of the ashigaru, He was a fiery young lad that remembered from the peasant drills, bright and inguisitive. His manner and bearing were such that in other circumstances, in another life, 1 ‘would have mistaken him for a noble Akodo. ‘Together we faced the bandit lord, a giant of a man with a fierce katana stained black with the blood of my’ new friends. I took the first step toward him. This was my destiny, I knew. I was meant for this combat. But I was not meant to win, it seems. The bandit felled me with a single blow, opening my stomach from hip to hip. AAs I fll, [saw the ashigaru boy strike down the bandit lord. 1 never even thought to ask his name. 1 wish I knew it now, but I do not wish to ‘insult him. If knew his name, I would scream his name through the halls of the ancestors when I go to meet them, scream it with all the power of my soul so that they would know who a true hero is. What world i this, that allows such cowards as myself to be born samurai, but casts a brave soul like that boy's into poverty? As the village rebuilds, I see that the lad has taken command of the village. His spirit i strong, pure, and virtuous. Even the Otaku horse seems to accept him and follows him about dutifully in the absence of her mistress. The boy carries the katana he stripped from the bandit lord, and wears it with pride. Another samurai might consider his adoption of the horse and the blade terrible offenses but I find that I cannot blame him. His crimes are meager {in comparison with mine. If anyone deserves to bea samurai, it is that boy. 1 do not have much time left. The winter snows ‘grow thicker. Travel has become impossible and there are no healers here to tend my wound. I become more fevered by the moment and I know that soon I will sleep and not awaken. 1 have given my family’s scroll, Leadership, to the boy, ‘whom I have nicknamed “Toku” He has earned it, alter the gift he has given me. A gift of which T was hardly deserving. He has shown me true honor. From THE Letters oF Miva Yoto To His Niece, Yumi ‘What a strange and wonderful creature - the ronin, So misunderstood, even by themselves. 1 know that often my colleagues smirk behind my back for my fascination with the wave-men, but I pay them no mind. Every man has his vice, and 1 believe there are far worse evils than the study of. these peculiar masterless warriors. Thave had many opportunities to interview ronin during my travels. My duties asa diplomat and herald often intersect with two of the ronin’s ‘most frequent occupations ~ the mereenary and the bandit. 1 can tell you from experience that ronin are ruthless men. They do what they must to survive, and the difference between a ronin and ‘a mercenary is sometimes nothing more than economy. Sul, even the most cutthroat and vicious of these characters maintains a certain nobility and bearing that I find intriguing, No matter how foul their name has become, they bea their katana with pride. No matter what the world may consider them, in their mind they are samural. Born. to poverty, cast into exile, they cling biterly to what they have left, evento the destruction of their own health, even to be hunted like criminals though they have done no wrong Ifit were me, I would not beso brave. In many ways I think a farmer is better off than a ronin. A farmer can always find a place, and is never a threat. But to become a downtrodden symbol of violence and nonconformity for no other reason than because your honor demands it? That is what it means to be a ronin. 1 will write now not of the most skilled ronin 1 have met, nor the oldest, nor the wisest. I will Line Cnr rie tire No) 4. No Glory = ronin manages to it ‘himself an important. positon as an advisor or deputy magistrate, any ‘gained by a ronin is useless. No semua mind, you ae an aber tothe Celestial Order.Here is a brief lst of of the best pats of a ‘being ronin. ‘No Clan, No Family — your own destiny. jou dont have to worry some inbred relative ‘you've never met popping ‘ofthe woodwork to your life miserable Tudicrous demands. ly linitation is your © could vse ahired hand soul se ahi 5, Connections ~ Over ed on opposite age) write simply of one of the most interesting. He was a small man with haunted eyes and a jagged, faded tattoo on one side of his weathered face. 1 first met him on a waystation along. the Emperor's Road. He initiated a brawl with a much larger man, and came away the victor despite seemingly impossible odds. He carried no sword He walked alone. He asked for no help and offered none. What a dark and solitary figure! The only item of any value that he possessed was a fine chestnut stallion, a steed in far better condition than its ronin master. Despite his lack of a daisho, he maintained that he was samurai ‘and demanded to be treated appropriately. He had come upon hard times and was nearly starved. I found his character so intriguing that 1 hired him on as a yojimbo for a time, though 1 needed no additional bodyguards. During this time, I had opportunity to interview him at length. | hoped to learn just how he had come to this point on his lifes road. “What is your name?” I asked him. He seemed to hesitate for a moment before he answered, “Sanzo,” bluntly. No family, no clan Merely ‘Sanzo’ The same name as one of the legendary companions of Doji Hotei, An assumed name, or merely a coincidence? I did not press the matter. Many ronin prefer some degree of ‘anonymity “Ifyou do not mind my impudence, were you ‘once of a clan” I took care to frame my manner carefully: Though he bore no weapons, a ronin’s past is nothing to be trifled with “L was” he replied with a faraway look in eye. “was a yoriki in a small village. I lived there with my family, until...” His eyes became even more glazed and he did not talk for several moments. He looked as though he had faced a severe crisis and lost a bit of his soul in the bargain. He gave no details, but I knew that he hhad met with great tragedy. His family, perhaps his entire village, were no doubt dead. 1 did not interrupt his reverie, but merely waited for him to return, The process took several minutes. “L was a Dragon,” this Sanzo said finally. “A Dragon?” I said, surprised. Few Dragon become ronin. Despite their aura of mystery and inscrutability, the Dragon 1 had known are remarkably understanding of one anothers flaws. A Dragon ronin seemed almost incomprehensible. “Had you no other relatives, perhaps 2 sensei? Would no one in your clan take you?” I realized at the last moment that perhaps the man was & criminal or a renegade of some sor, and hoped that ‘my question would not provoke him to violence. “They would have taken me,” Sanzo said, ‘But I would not let them. The Dragon Clan isno place for a coward” “Again, excuse my temerity” I said with a polite smile, “But I have seen your valor. ! have seen your eyes, and after along life as a diplomat, T consider myself a good judge of character. You are no coward, Sanzo” “No,” Sanzo said with great resignation in his voice. “Now I am dead” He seemed so dark and melancholy at this point that I turned the conversation to brighter matters. For the short time that 1 knew him, Sanzo was never cheerful, but he was dependable He went about his work without complaint, and always had a certain dignity despite the quiet rage that always boiled just beneath his skin. Before he left my service, took the liberty of offering him the gift of a new daisho to replace the one he had lost. He seemed surprised, forthe cost of two swords was far more than the regular fee for a mere summer's work. Happily, he did not take the gesture as an insult but, for the frst and only time during the period in which I knew him, he smiled. Without another word, Sanzo bowed deeply, tucked the swords into his tattered obi, and led his stallion away. often wonder where Sanzo’ journey has led 1 wonder what has made him as he is. What ean change a man like that? What can twist his spirit and shatter his soul such that he becomes a shadow, that all he can do is move through the ‘motions of his former life with a mechanical duty, searching, ever searching? ‘What, I wonder, are you searching for, Sanzo? FROM THE JouRNAL OF Kaw Suman T have worked forty years in my position as Master of the Wall It is my duty to oversee the engineers, to make certain that every bit of the shield that bears our name and protects Rokugan from darkness is not vulnerable to attack. It is endless work. It is laborious work. Its grueling and thankless. It is necessary. ‘Ample workmen are always difficult to come by, especially for the occasional repairs required ‘on the inside of the wall. Many samurai, even practical-minded Crab, are too proud to reduce themselves to such menial labor. Many of the ashigaru who fill our ranks have no skill in‘masonry or any aptitude to learn. The craftsmen ‘we import often take a single look at the dark territories that lay beyond the Carpenter and turn away in terror. I cannot blame them. The Shadowlands are a rotten fruit and the Carpenter, as impressive a5 it isis but a thin peel to protect us. Better that they look and turn away. We have no room for cowards or incompetents here. ‘Thus I turn this discussion to ronin. When 1 began my training under my father's guiding hand, 1 had thought him mad to suggest that ronin could be of any use in the care and maintenance of the Carpenter. Trust a man who serves no master? A mercenary who does not even have the good grace to put aside the daisho when the Fortunes demand it? Ludicrous! You ‘might as well hire @ mujinal The day he became aware of my opinions, my father assigned me to a repair crew. At first, | was honored. The repair of the Carpenter is the most ‘important task a Kaiu can ever be given. Then I realized, to my dismay, that my entire work erew was composed of ronin, including the foreman, who seemed to take a certain dark glee in assigning me the most grueling and backbreaking duties. The anger that burned in my heart was such that I would have cut him down right there, but there is no time for pointless feuding when repairs must be done. Leave that to the foolish Lions and their proud bellysliting games. The Crab have work to do. 1 watched these ronin, 1 watched them carefully. Many of them were not skilled masons bbut they seemed to take their lead from more ‘experienced eta. Eta! I had not even bothered to noice the hinin workers, and why should I have? ‘These ronin were wise. These eta had spent their entire lives working along the Carpenter, and knew how to repair the stonework swifly and securely. The ronin were eager and versatile workers, and quickly mastered the art. Quicker 1 admit with shame, than I did. The foreman, Kikkawa, was a master engineer. I assumed that hhe must have been a disgraced Kaiu, so great was his talent. I learned later to my surprise that he was not, but had learned all that he knew of stonework irom experience AAs I continued awkwardly about my work, dressed in the light armor of my gempukku, one ronin laughed at me openly. “You'll get more stones laid if you loosen that armor and get to work, Kaiu!” she said, There was no venom in her tone, just a jovial familiarity that 1 found Lino Cneeete wince we imitating. [could not contain my disgust. I tured away from mixing the mortar to address them. “Armor is a necessity” I said, directing my voice to all the workers with a sweep of my hand. Here we were, technically within the Shadowlands, but many of them worked with ‘only armored skirts or even simple loincloths. Only the sliver of jade each bore about their neck signified any awareness of the dangers we faced “Don't you know that the enemy can strike at any ‘moment? We must have our weapons ready if we are to triumph” “We know, Kaiusama,” Kikkawa said somberly, and the sincere note of respect jarred my temper. “But the best weapon against the Shadowlands is the Wall itself. Dressed as we are, we can complete it much mote quickly and the Empire will be safe again” I shook my head in irritation, “But what if an ont should appear?” I asked with a growl. “If a horde of goblins should crest the ridge, what will ‘you do then?” “We will die” Kikkawa sald. “And while wwe die, the samurai above will rally to destroy them. Is that not the reason you hired us?” | could say nothing What 1 had taken for carelessness was bravery. What 1 had taken for dishonor in deferring to eta was nothing more than efficiency. These men were given a duty, my duty by birthright, but they were willing to risk their lives to see it done efficiently. Whatever these men had done to reach this state, whatever crimes they committed to become the outcasts that they were, no longer mattered, Those ronin rose high in my esteem. Higher than a few Crabs Tknow. Forty years later, all of the ronin who I worked with on that day, including the noble Kikkawa, are dead, Within ten years, ten of the fourteen 1 met had perished from accidents related to their ‘work on the Carpenter. Four moved on to safer exploits, cach carrying my highest recommendations on their future endeavors. FROM A GNaweD Tree Limo FLOATING IN AkA~Mizu-Umi ‘To whoever read this, see the story of Mikthik'thamatch, Rememberer of Blazing Gullet ‘Tribe. Tribe gone-gone now. Gone-gone away and not much left now. But time tribectribe had was good one. Much food and many little ones and have Junkei to thank Look on story and remember it good. Good-good-good, Pe cout of ronin. You're a thie, a freak, vt or ‘sciupttaal there's nowhere Dut up. At times, reputation can b frighten oF© Roun HERALDRY Soin era i « ‘curious thing. 52) Ronin repuation is sal fo his existence. I is “f‘pon the weight of fe feast oe Sppfear To this end, ronin late clan samurai by ‘mons and other ‘banners of identification | Winter Court: Kyuden ‘The mons of ronin, heraldry Asa result, “many ronin steal one suas inode o capitalize on a rivals reputation orto sully Junkei was tallall pale skinned dayrunner, of the ones with the small teeth and the big eyes. ‘The ones who let fly the bolts of steel that kil-Kil ‘The ones who leave the rice in the fields so Nezumi feed and do no harm. The “humans” Junkei was be special human, Was be ofthe ones with the long claw and the short claw. The ones that make the war and kill-kill and bring the doom-doom. The ones that call they be the sama ‘We Blazing Gullet name Junkei Nezumi name Give name Wild-Hair Steel Bringer Eyes-of Glory. He come to us without fear. He come to us with shiny-shiny things. He come to us with idea, and he come to give us sharp steel claws like the samurai, He teach us how to hunt the humans. He teach-teach us the holes in the samurai shel. With him, we kill, we raid, we take what we want, We invite him into tribe with great happy-happy for he one who think like a Nezumi and treat us like Nezumi would treat Nezumi, not like hhumans who kill with scream and make Nezumi die. He laugh at this. He call us “bandits” Funny hhuman-human word. Still him want be chief all the same and we make him chief all the same. Mik'thik'thamatch talk to Wild-Hair-Steel- Bringer Eyes-of Glory once and Mik'thik'thamatch askask him this. This Mikthik'thamatch ask: “Wild-Hair-Stee!-Bringer Eyes-of Glory.” Mik'thik’thamatch ask, “Why you no have tribe of humans?” Mik'thik’thamatch ask “Why smartsmart human like you come to nezumi to become great?” Mikthik'thamatch ask “Why you not stay among humans and become biggest chif-chief of all?” Mik'thik'thamatch ask. Mik'thik'thamatch ask allthis, because man-man smart as Wild-Hair-Steel-Bringer Eyes-of Glory surely smart enough to become big-big-biggest chief if he can! Wild-Hair Steet Bringer Eyes of Glory bring our tribe so much food and good. good things. More food than tribe can eat. More ‘g00d:good things than tribe can carry. Wild-Hair-Steel-Bringer-Eyes-of-Glory take a long time to answer that question. To Mikthik'thamatch, i look lke the question hurt him deep inside. Mik'thik'thamatch was sorry for asking question, but as. much as Mikthik'thamatch claw at the air he could not pull question back. Wild-Hair Steel Bringer-Eyes-of-Glory never answer that question. The next time the bright rise up high in the sky, Blazing Gullet find that Wild-Hair Steel-Bringer-Eyes-of-Glory is gone. [Not know where be go. Not know what be think. Why leave a tribe where you king? It hurt Miktthikthamatch to think about it. Did Blazing Gallet do something wrong? Did question hurt so much? Then the samurai came, samurai in shells of red and black with sharp dws and long sticks and no-no mercy for Blazing Gullet tribe. They call us bandits, but they not as happy about word as Wild-Hair Steel Bringer Eyes-of-Glory. Instead, they make war and kilFkill and bring the doom: doom to Blazing Gullet Tribe. Blazing Gullet die. Only Mikthik'thamatch get away to make this stick and east upon streams of history for all ‘Nezumi to find and know. Mikthik'thamatch hope Wild-Hair Steel Bringer Eyes-of-Glory become big. chief-king samurai among the humans, because him give us ‘good time, and him worth it Remember us From THE Reports OF IDE AsHuun, EMERALD MacisTRATE Ronin. Bah, Dogs! The only good ronin is @ dead one. 1 know this is a cliché, but when T speak it I feel that every word could not be more true. Every word rolls to my throat with ease; thus I speak it again and I speak it now. Foul barbaric, uncouth. my soul is in disarray. 1 must calm myself, lest the stomach ailment that has been my bane so much of late get the best of rme.It bothers me most when I think ofthe ronin. If ever there were a more lawless, dishonorable bunch, more deserving of complete and total annihilation. ‘Unfocused anger isa vice. Forgive me. 1 have had much trouble of late, many attacks upon my character and I fear that it has gotten the better of my normal good nature, Do not misinterpret me; I prize my position as magistrate more than any other and intend to bring my family name honor in the execution of my duties, but sometimes, sometimes I long for the times before I was given, this mission. NNN rae‘The days before I was asked to find the man named Yugoro. ‘This maniac, this oni-spawn, this so called bbandit-king has cut a bloody streak across the face of Rokugan and taken the jewels ofits labor as well as its daughters for his own sadistic pleasures. No bold and dashing ronin of the Jeabuki he, no, this man is of the truer sort. A villain. A barbarian. Aman who carries the ‘aisho for no other reason than because of the effective instrument of death it makes. You say that ronin are men of honor? I would laugh if the statement were not so pitiable. Men such as Yugoro know nothing of honor. They do not know their place. They rail against the structure of the Empire, the government we have created to protect the simple people from chaos and anarchy. They take everything that is sacred, all of the gifts that the kami have generously bestowed upon us, and cast it all aside as offal What could such men know of honor? apologize if my outburst has caused you, dear reader, any discontent but by my passion I only mean to make my message clear. Forget what you have learned about these ronin. Forget about the romanticized notions with which they are often Painted, the glorious and dreamy overtones often Polished to a gleam in the courts. Courts, I might ‘ad, far from the terror of men like Yugoro. These ‘men ate nothing but dogs. Curs who kill without thought or reason. Men who think of bushido as nothing more than a constraint. Why, their very existence proves the sort of men they are! Consider my words well. A samurai is a man who serves his lord for te glory of Rokugan, who seeks out honor forthe benefit of his ancestors, If these men have no masters, then what purpose could they serve but their own? If they have no family name, what need could they have to carry the daisho but their own greed? These men are not to be trusted. Were they truly men of honor, they would retire to the monastery as justice demands, Yugoro...One day, ronin. One day. Alas, must retire from writing for now. | have much to plan tomorrow, and my old ailment returns. “RONIN’, aN Essay sy HamuKo I never knew what to think of the ronin. To tell the truth, the whole idea of them never really struck me as anything that important, a laprer Cnet tet Until 1 became one, Amazing how your perspective can change. ‘My name is Hamuko. Once of the Soshi, Iam now without family or clan. 1 was a shugenja, working as @ minor courtier on assignment to Kyuden Isawa. My knowledge of the kami was nearly unrivaled among my family, and 1 soon became intimately familiar with many of the Prominent Isawa. When the Coup came, 1 was caught unawares. I had never imagined Shoju capable of such a thing, o be quite honest. | had thought my master more subtle in his ambition. ‘When the Imperial Legions came, seeking the Emperor's bloody vengeance, the Elemental Masters were kind enough to intercede on my behalf in return for my loyal services and the friendships I had formed, My name was taken, my titles were stripped, but my life was spared. 1 wondered, at the time, if the sacrifice was worth it Thave heard stories of the poverty of the ronin and the eternal derision that is thei lo. They are outcasts, often regarded to be criminals for no good reason. The thought of becoming one chilled my Soshi blood. But now, I must say, I enjoy it quite a bit. AAs a Scorpion, | was a skilled shugenja and courtier. Though my position brought my family ‘great honor and esteem, three things always bothered me First, that those who knew me, respected me, but always from a distance Second, that while my words were known to have sway over both the kami and mortal man alike, my presence always drew suspicion, Ever ‘would there be the fear of the Scorpion sting that might lie behind the pincers of sweet words. Third, though my beauty was envied and many sought my hand in marriage, the Soshi ordered me ever to remain apart. A tantalizing dish, once tasted, grows cold. That was my uncle Bantaro’s reasoning Now, however, everything has changed. In the many months since the Coup, three clans have approached me, seeking to turn my skills to their service. First was the Isawa, who communicated his desire to place me at a high ranking postion in his libraries. Next came the Kitsu, who have offered me a place among them as an honored advisor. Last were the Crab, more honest than the rest, who bluntly stated their desire for the secrets of my Soshi magic, and their willingness to grant me favors in return. 1 have accepted none of their offers, but have received SE ny Rown Henatpny (ContineD) — This can be a bil of ay Dada as many in Dragon generals make we ona mace thet campaign webuiy ee ea ‘most generals who mercenaries also freq ‘employ a ronin ad assist in ferreting out ‘Those who could care lines anyway, where doesnt make adi“What do I feel, in? Nothing. do many gifts and favors as they vie for my service. enjoy more attention as a lone wolf than I ever did as a presumed pawn of the Scorpion. As for my status in the courts, many who feared me as a Scorpion now greet me warmly as a friend, They feel that my decision to abandon my name puts me apart somehow from the Scorpion stereotype. They are wrong, of course; I sii have plans to put into action, The removal of ‘my name is simply a means to an end, I keep this concealed, and thus I find that 1 am respected purely on the basis of my abilities. 1 am sought not because | am Bantaro’s student. Not because Tam Hametsu’s liaison. Not because 1 am a representative of the Scorpion. I am respected because I am Haruko. Ironically, now that I have Jost my name, my name finally carries weight. And as for the last, my prospects of marriage? Sadly, they are still remote. It seems that while those who would seek to manipulate me or use me for my “independent” status are great in number, those who would bring me close to their heart are nonexistent. It seems that some things are truly denied the ronin, just as they are in the tales. Anonymous (The following scroll ras discovered tucked into a copy of Kakita’s The Stword. Its writer has never been traced, and must therefore be ‘presumed to still be alive as, were he to be found, he would certainly be killed) Courage and honor are like a bridge. You never know their true strength until they are tested, and then they either crumble or bear you across Samurai say that the honor of ronin is worthless, that they are creatures worse than eta, animals that can be trusted to do nothing but cause terrible violence. Villains to be cut down on sight, T say that it is samurai who are weak. They hide behind their families and their alliances, living in their high-walled castles and feeding off the toil of the common folk. They do not understand the world that they rule. They do not know what it means to survive. They praise the Viriues of bushido: honesty, compassion, courage, sincerity, duty, courtesy, honor, but do. they understand them? Listen well to my words. How can a man be honest when his words are not his own? When a samurai parrots the words of his Tord, he is but a puppet, and honesty is impossible. To be honest with oneself and true to ‘your own desires, that is the honesty ofa ronin, Compassion? The samurai go out oftheir way to assist one another within their family or dan and call it compassion, Tell me when a Lion has stooped to help a Crane, or a Sconpion has gone out of his way to assist an impoverished Phoenix. To help one within your family is not compassion, it is simply looking out for yourseli and cementing. alliances. When a traveling ronin meets a stranger and shares his meal with no thought of reward, that is the compassion of a ronin ‘What is courage? To the great armies of the clans, courage is easy. But what is courage when Victory is assured? What does it mean to die for a cause when its certain others will carry the tales of your glory? To deny the employment of a wicked master and face cold and starvation, to die in a shallow grave for a worthy cause no one will ever remember ~ that isthe courage of a ronin And sincerity. A samurai’s word isthe same as his action? Prove this to me, for I have yet to see it A man on his own must be as good as his ‘word, or he will swiftly find that the world has no use for him. That isthe sincerity of a ronin, Diuty? To be responsible for the consequences ‘one is born into? The samurai live a life of wealth ‘and privilege. The only consequences are those they throw upon themselves. A waverman must live with the consequences of his actions every second, for at any moment his aberrant existence ray be thrown into peril and only his past deeds will serve to prove him worthy. That is the duty of aronin But what of courtesy? Are not ronin uncouth and discourteous? Do we not spurn the polite society that the samurai have built and laugh at the works of the clans? Perhaps. I know I have. But why should we not? The samurai do the same to us. Courtesy breeds courtesy, and respect can grow only in its own soi. That is the courtesy of a ronin. Honor? There are those who say that the ronin have 10 honor, Thave no argument Except to say that those who say such things are blind and ignorant fool Our actions speak for themselves Each wave-man is his own legend. That is the honor of a ronin.Lire as a Lone WoiF What is a ronin? Directly translated, the term means “waverman” an individual whose destiny has been cast into happenstance and uncertainty By their nature, they defy all attempts to be defied, contained, or controlled. A ronin is more easily defined by what it is not then by what itis. Aronin isa wandering warrior who, by chance or by birth, has no master. In Rokugan, where social interaction is rigidly defined, the ronin is an aberration. He is a warrior. Yet while it is a warriors duty to rule the lands and hold titles, a ronin has no lands. He is a samurai, yet he must work to find income rather than lve off of taxes. Many Rokugani are uncertain exactly where a ronin fits in their Celestial Order. As a result, ‘many samurai prefer to ignore the existence of ronin. ‘Aronin is not a peasant. Though @ ronin has no lands, he is sil a samurai. Warsiors are not farmers. The two are distinctly different levels of the Celestial Order. While a farmer may have some small hope, through great heroism and personal accomplishment, of one day becoming a Samurai, a true samurai would never lower himself into the place of a farmer. Ths is not to say that it never happens, but itis certainly the height of dishonor. A samurai working a rice paddy is a sad, defeated man, ‘The easiest method by which a. samurai becomes a ronin is by birth. The son or daughter of a ronin is also ronin, if they choose not to denounce their status. It is nearly every born ronins dream that they might one day prove themselves worthy to swear fealty to a clan, thus becoming a true, full-fledged samurai, Though Pt later Woe rte this happens from time to time, it is infrequent even in the case of the very talented, as few daimyo are willing to seta precedent by allowing ronin into their clan. More often ronin are sent on ‘quests with the promise of fealty, only to be denied on some technicality Even when ronin are granted fealty, they are seldom given the full rights and privileges to which clan samurat have access. Most ronin are admitted with probationary status, admitted to ‘one of the can’ lesser vassal families. While the ronin is still technically a member of the can and bears the family name, he is unlikely to be allowed such privileges as training at the clan academies or attending the daimyo’ court. Such privileges are normaly obtained after generations of service within the vassal families, though it is not unknown for a truly exemplary individual to speed the process considerably. Other ronin begin their career aligned to a clan, but lose their status later in life. Skilled samurai who suddenly find themselves without a master can usually find a position working for a relative, but sometimes this 1s not an option. Many factors can lead to a samurai giving up his family name and striking out alone, Generally, the fact that a samurai can find no one to offer fealty implies failure, dishonor, or incompetence om his part. It is partially for this reason that many ronin are seen to be vagabonds, preying upon normal society Of course, the rest of the reason is that many ronin are vagabonds who prey upon normal society. The sad, simple fact is that ronin must support themselves somehow, and bandity is a viable option for a trained warrior. OF course, other ronin struggle against this stereotype, working to prove themselves worthy in their own eyes as well as those of others. Without clan or family to urge them to greatness, a ronin hero must be his own example. He must succeed or fail on his own terms, and can only depend upon himself. Such rare heroes carry @ special form of bushido in their heart. These men ‘and women have a very personal code of honor that may not mesh completely with traditional Rokugani ethics, but is all the more powerful for its intensely personal nature In the end, no two ronin are alike. No two ronin have found their path by the same route. Their goals, their methods, their activities vary as much as the individuals themselves. REGARDING (ConrinveD)) Scorpion: “There is strength within the and inthe shadow tha beneath. The setae path means three me Jhunt behind you" Imperial time of war, ronin forthe mull of bate, ‘ime of peace, ronin tinder that starts Minor Clans: that warriors who sii alone, rely upon their| me Two || The History of | the Wave Meu‘katanas made of bound strips and are thus ‘more flexible, yet n0 ‘These weapons ‘nearly as lethal as but are sill quite ile using practice the GM wishes Background Types o¢ Ronn It seems that there are as many ways for a samurai to find himself ronin as there are ronin, No two tales have the same beginning. There are, hhowever, several recurring patterns, The following are the most common causes for a samurat to find himself in such a position. Note that each cause bears different stigma and carries different expectations. Again, no {wo ronin are alike. The details of a ronin's background are eritical to his existence and can mean the difference between heroism end and a dishonorable death Ronin~Born AAs stated in the previous chapter, children of ronin are also ronin if they maintain ther parent's ‘samurai lifestyle. This is true even ifthe ronin’s other parent was a heimin, The samurai parent’ status overrides peasant status if the child chooses. Tis isthe rarest method by which ronin are created, First of all, many ronin tend to be such loners that marriage is not an option Rokugani marriages are political maneuvers more than anything else, and an unwashed ronin has very litle to offer such an arrangement. As a result legitimate marriages among ronin are rare, and ronin children more so. ‘Another barrier to continuing the tradition is poverty. A ronin, like a lan samurai identified by his katana. To the casual observer, a samurai without a sword is not a samurai and should be treated as such. A young ronin who has no sword to inherit has no way of proving his claim except his word, ‘Of course, there are always exceptions. There are wealthy ronin families in Rokugan. Some of them, like the Yotsu, maintain a family name despite their lack of clan afflation. The majority of ronin-born belong to such families, or come from long lines of ronin. Ronin of this variety tend to be proud of their position. After generations, perhaps centuries, of self-reliance these ronin do not see the need to seek a master. They are doing quite fine, thank you. Many ronin families can trace their lineage to the days of the First War. Clan samurai tend to find these sort of ronin more reliable and less apt to cause banditry, vandalism, and other crimes, but their years of self reliance can also make’ them obnoxiously ‘independent Weatny RETAINERS Though a samurai’s lord provides all of the wealth that his retainers require, this does not prevent some samurai from seeking outside income. Samurai can amass quite a bit of wealth independently, especially in wake of the Rokuganis developing economy and the growing power of the merchant clas. At times, a canny samurai might amass more wealth than the lord hae serves, a potentially embarrassing situation for both parties. This happens most often among the Daidoji, Ide, and Mantis, where mercantile behavior is common or encouraged. While one right expect this also to be prevalent among the ‘Yasuki, itis not. Yasuki who gather great wealth are immediately promoted, and their former lords reprimanded for their inferior business acumen. While an honorable samurai would turn over personal profit for the good ofthe clan, the simple reality is that not all men are honorable. The lure of power and riches can seduce even @ noble samurai, Thus, many wealthy retainers pay their masters what they feel they owe, then “retire” from their duties to go into business for themselves. Having abandoned their master and clan, they are now ronin. While these samurai are free to proclaim thelr former affiliations as much as they please, most do not. More than any other sort of ronin save the dishonored, these ronin are despised At the very least, they are viewed with jealousy At the worst, they are considered traitors. Of course, these brand of ronin are usually clever (or wealthy) enough to keep themselves well ahead of angry {and less prosperous) relatives. Since the new concept of “money-lending” has exploded on the ay Or certeconomic scene, ronin of this sort have little want for powerful allies. Discorpant Samural Samurai who ate guilty of minor infractions, such as an inappropriate display of emotion, a vocal outburst, or a minor lapse in etiquette, may find themselves cast out for “temporary discord” Although not technically ronin, samurai in this unfortunate position are formally cut off from assistance from their family or lan, This can also happen in situations where the samurai brought dishonor or embarrassment through no fault of his own (uch as accidentally frightening his lord’ horse into bolting). Such a punishment is also reserved for young samurai who have trouble controlling their temper, and can have a very sobering effect upon the unprepared. Samurat of this type are free to proclaim their former clan afiiation, and may even wear their former colors and mon. However, if they do so, they are required to inform anyone they encounter of their current situation and are not allowed to rely upon kinsmen for support. These quasi ronin are not given traveling papers and are exiled from their home. Of all the types of non-clan samurai, this one has the greatest hope of redemption. His is assumed to be a temporary situation, Sometimes, the offender is given a certain amount of time (usually a year) in which he must survive, then return. Sometimes, he is required to prove himself in battle, perhaps to return with the head of an enemy. At any rate, once the pre-determined conditions are met, the discordant samurai is invited to return to his former positon. Some go to such extreme lengths to be returned to their lords good graces that they receive a promotion upon their return, DisHonoreD SAmuRAI ‘The harshest of punishments is when a ‘samurai is forbidden seppuku and cast into exile instead. This is no gesture of mercy. This is the height of cruelty, and never imposed lightly. To be made to continue existence as a living symbol of your own failure isa bitter fate. Many of this sort ‘of ronin kill themselves for the unbearable shame, though this is an even greater dishonor, demonstrating that you were as unable to fulfill your duties in death as you were in life. Such a ‘weak and cowardly person can hardly expect ‘much better in the next life Dishonored ronin are forbidden to reveal their former family and clan affiliations, Their name is stricken from all records. They are less than dead. ‘These are bitter, desperate men who have litle hope of returning to the service of their former clan, or any other for that matter. When a clan samurai asks a ronin what master he served last, and that ronin does not answer, the samural can guess the reason why. These sort of ronin are the ‘most likely to end up criminals, tearing down everything they held sacred in their former life tot of the absolute rage that consumes them, iter 2 Wore te Pastry themselves a his longa distinguished caree. he survived seven castle most of which succes defended against superior attacking for Siege is a master of or expense to obtain venerable Siege’ they ean produce ‘kolku, they might wpe tends to ignore a etiquette and social cris He travels with ine daughters, all ton thelr father, and do best to keep the ab minded old siegeDS Tersune Soko Ovari has fallen ‘pon hae times. Imperial aval ses = ang (or Scorpion collburators. The governor fled in tro, leaving “tke Legions to enforce Haw. The heimin and ofthe city sufer The Tormer subject ofthe eon ae treated with -ruelty by the zealous glonnaires. They have to cat and endure be is ninja, for he is as quik as a shadow and a fighter Time and he has humiliated the rors soldiers steling ‘money and delivering ‘the koku in secret to he is Fade, the that once prowled ‘Others think thet ‘is Jocho the former ofthe Lightning "Some believe he is ofier of the Legion erhaps he is none of Only one thing is m of Tetsuka, and that symbol he leaves in his wake: an unshod hhoofprint. In modern times, this was the fate met by the ‘Akodo family and the Scorpion Clan. Those Akodo who did not commit seppuku or join the Deathseekers became dishonored ronin, as did Scorpions who fled their homes before the ‘onslaught of the Imperial Legions or surrendered their name to save their lives. Scorpion and Akodo ronin are less fortunate than most. As their ejection was proclaimed by the Hantel, only he can rescind the order. Until that time, no Scorpion is allowed to swear fealty to any clan without special dispensation from the Emperor. The Akodo who chose not to swear fealty to other Lion families are free to do as they please, but ‘most daimyos avoid granting these individuals fealty out of fear that to do so may displase the Emperor. Deap Master This is the most tragic cause of ronin status, fone of the least common, and the most romanticized. When a samurai dies without an heir, his retainers and yojimbo are cast to the waves, In such a situation, a samurai has the option of seeking employment with his lords, relatives, but sometimes this door is closed. Ifthe daimyo died for an act of dishonor, then his retainers may be seen to carry a bit of that dishonor themselves and will be shunned. A lord's assassination, as well, reflects poorly on his personal guard, and may cause the clan to hesitate in finding them a new lord to protect. cannot afford the expense of new retainers and hhave no choice in the matter. Sometimes, a samurai who was intensely loyal to his lord wil not wish to seek another master, but will endure the life of a ronin instead Ronin of this variety are allowed to divulge their former clan and wear their former mons and colors. Most choose not to do so as a sign of respect. A ronin must live by his sword; to wear your dead master’s mon in hopes of attracting ‘employment is to seek favor for his name rather than your own, While this is not illegal, it ean be viewed as somewhat unscrupulous, and can cause a bit of resentment among members of the ronin’s former clan. Musa SHucyo While not a ronin, a samurai on a musha ‘shugyo (warrior pilgrimage’) shares many of the ronin's benefits and stigma, The musha shugyo is ‘a quest fo better one's prowess by example. A ‘warrior who chooses to undertake the pilgrimage must frst ask permission from his daimyo There is a pseudo-mystical sanctity to the musha shugyo, and permission is usually only denied in times of war. The musha shugyo is seen as the warrior’ swiftest avenue to enlightenment and mastery of the blade, Most samurai only undertake one in their entire life ‘To begin the quest, a samurai puts aside all symbols of his clan and family, setting forth alone. Ife is accompanied, it is by other pilgrims. ‘The pilgrim may divulge his affiliation, but most do not. This is a quest to be undertaken alone, and invoking one's family name is to rely upon them. The warriors clan stats is not revoked; it is merely irrelevant for the duration of the pilgrimage. Accepting assistance from the clan — from anyone - would violate the spirit of the ruisha shugyo. if a samurai tells another that he is on a musha shugyo, that should be sufficient to satisly any curiosity. Few will question the pilgrims honor by questioning further, While on the musha shugyo, the samurai's goal is to learn as much as possible. Often, they follow a famous contemporary warrior in hopes of learning from them or mimic the journeys of some legendary hero of old. Along the way, they indulge in duels with bokken, shina, or even katana in order to hone their skill If, in their journeys, a pilgrim comes across a battle, they survey the conflict and then request permission to join the side that most suits them. ‘Those who would disguise their true nature behind the sanctity and anonymity of the musha shugyo should be warned ~ this is a warriors pilgrimage. The pilgrim is expected to accept all challenges. A suspicious daimyo can easily deal with 2 spy claiming to be a pilgrim by sending forth skilled swordsmen with challenges until the rmusha is slain. Ronin AGEnT ‘Technically, a ronin operates without the benefit of protection or affiliation with any clan Sometimes this isnot the case. At times, politics fr decorum can prevent 2 daimyo from acting in what he sees as an honorable fashion, forcing him to allow insults to go unpunished or enemies 10 run free. When a solution cannot be brought about without losing face, drastic measures are called for.Extremely loyal or honorable samurai may be called upon to assume the role of ronin in order to gain vengeance, seek reprisal, or otherwise strike back against an enemy. Such ronin always act unofficially, of course, and if they are apprehended in the course of their duties they assume full responsibility. Only the extremely loyal are considered for such a mission, as to use ronin status in such a manner is highly illegal and dishonorable. These ronin operate as if they were dishonored or retited samurai, and refuse to expose their former affiliations. They will gladly plead guilty to nonexistent crimes in order to hide their true purpose and protect the honor of the lord whose interests they serve. ‘A samurai who undertakes such a mission does not expect to survive. Their missions are ‘often nigh impossible. Even if they are successful, they commit seppuku upon the mission's ‘completion to insure their lord's anonymity. When the Scorpion were a Great Clan, this sort of operation was standard procedure. Some would ‘whisper that only the scale oftheir deception has changed. Enployment ‘The rigidly structured social system of Rokugan makes no place for lone wolves, vet somehow ronin manage to survive. Though the life is dificult, there are several options open for «ronin to support himselt. MERCENARIES This is the most common position in which ronin will find employment. Depending on the political climate it can be easy to find work, especialy ifthe ronin doesn’t mind being thrown ‘onto the frontlines. Unfortunately, the prospects of advancement in this occupation are stim to none. One body is as good as another. If the ronin dies, that’ one fewer mercenary to pay Ihe lives, hel be sent back to the front again next time. yen those mercenaries who do well in several campaigns find it dificult to gain glory for their exploits. They are hired hands. An adequate job is expected, not rewarded. The Lion Clan makes consistent use of mercenaries. The Lion armies are arguably the fines in Rokugan; to maintain excellence on the field, the Lion employ quality disposable troops. Let other clans round up unschooled farmers and st lapier 2 Word Ue PEISUOLy ‘arm them with spears. The Lion would rather hire trained warriors for their heavy-casualty front lines, and if none of them return, so much the better — theyre only ronin, after all. They especially favor disgrantied Crane ronin, who are acutely trained and know their enemy. Lion troops have ample opportunity to rest while the Crane kill their former kinsmen. The Crane do not regularly exercise this tactic in return; their Public stance is that they have litle use for ronin and that the Lion policy is dishonorable. The Lion argue that their policy works. It saves lives and employs potentially dangerous ronin. ‘The Lion feel itis more likely that Lion ronin do not wish to join the Crane. Those who have seen the power and glory of a Lion army from within would never be so foolish as to stand against them. Honored Apvisors ‘These are those rare ronin who have distinguished themselves as specialists, Their skills and reputations - if not their social positions — demand respect as well as monetary compensation. Ronin of this type include courtiers, shugenja, former generals, experts on spirit lore, and duelists Ronin advisors can gain a special appointment as temporary hatamoto, Unlike a true hatamoto, they do not possess holdings or permanent titles. Subject to the daimyo’ wishes, the ronin's advice is the final word on matters regarding his area of expertise. He was hired for a reason, Best to let such an individual fulill his duties so that he can be on his way and stop taxing the daimyo's coffers, Ronin specialists have litle trouble finding a ‘master, but they seldom swear fealty. Their skills are in such demand that they stand to gain more glory, fame, and profit by moving from one daimyo to the next. It is more likely that a ronin of this variety will attempt to work toward gaining enough status and recognition that he is granted a family name of his own. PRIESTS This is also another common occupation of ronin, for several reasons. First, many ronin blame themselves for ther situation, and turn to the Tao for redemption. Second, it is an easy profession to adopt. Most samurai are literate and versed in the Tao, so adapting to the priesthood does not require much effort. For shugen, itislegends, Mahomono's isnot exaggerated. ono is not human, idea that such a vei Aparty of a dazen io hunted Muhomono truly no effort at all for they were priests to begin with, Priests need not have any power over the kami in order to preach the Tao, though such abilities are a plus. Anyone who is truly pious and familiar with the Tao is welcome. The idea of a watrior taking on the position of, a holy man may seem somewhat contradictory ‘To a Rokugani, this is not so. A samurai is the ighest extension of the Celestial Order beneath the kami themselves, a step away from divinity. A katana is the symbol ofthis position. Oster ‘a ronin priest carries his katana as a symbol of his former rank, nothing more. A true Shintao priest would never stoop to taking another’ life. Some priests will not even defend themselves, ut will only dirty their hands with violence if a ‘greater injustice would ensue from their inaction ‘A special variant of the ronin priest is the komuso. These itinerant priests have no home or temple, but wander the Empire preaching to whomever will listen, These men and women wear a special basket hat over their heads to ‘maintain anonymity, so that their identity will not interfere with their message. They also carry a special flute, lng enough to be played while the basket is worn. This fute is the symbol of their position, and they often play these instruments for the donations they need to survive. Konuso are almost invariably shugenja, though a few bushi are known to exist TEACHERS The role of teacher comes easily to a ronin. Samurai are the most well-educated social group in Rokugan. Even the most thick-headed samurai possesses a variety of skills that are not available to common folk. Of course, a ronin will be extraordinarily careful to whom he teaches his skills, especially when teaching heimin, Peasants are almost never taught kenjutsu, and are forbidden to touch any sword except for bokken and shinai, More often, hheimin are taught archery, yarijutsu,jiujutsu, of other “lesser” combat arts. While most heimin cannot pay much (usually a zeni or two per lesson, if they're lucky), teaching several classes can earn a ronin a meager living. High Skills are rarely taught to heimin. Most samurai do not feel that heimin are worthy of such knowledge and few heimin are interested. Merchants are an exception to this - they are very interested, make excellent students, and have lots of money. ta are never, ever taught by a samurai, Even ronin have standards Ifa teacher is skilled enough, he may attract samurai students. Such students may be taught whatever the teacher feels is appropriate. I is possible for a clan ronin teacher to teach secret techniques, but is also extraordinarily dishonorable, an insult to his former school and sensei. A ronin who enters into such an enterprise will find his former kinsmen unforgiving. The teacher and all his students can expect to be swiftly hunted down and executed by the sensei and alumni of the dishonored school Execution. Not seppuiku. Public. Humiliting, Immediate Examples must be made. Its important fo note that some schools (the Matsu, Kakita, and Otaku in particular) are protective of all of their teachings, not just the techniques. While teaching skill is seen as a milder offense, these schools consider any former student who teaches what he has learned (especially to peasants) to be guilty of extreme dishonor. Such an individual will never find a place among his kinsmen again MERCHANT YouIMBO Samurai who are skilled bodyguards or duelists become yojimbo. When a yojimbo becomes ronin, i is quite difficult to continue this line of work. A yojimbo is trusted with anothers life. Could any daimyo find it in his heart to put that sort of trust in a ronin? Hardly. It seems as if the professional yojimbo has litle hope for survival inthe ronin’s world. Unless, as usual, he is willing to sacifice his honor. ‘As Rokugan’s economy has grown, so has the power of its merchants, Merchants are only heimin, but many merchants wield enough economic power and influence to put minor daimyos to shame. In time, merchants have noticed the usefulness of yojimbo. If a powerful samurai can have a protector, why cant a powerful merchant? Of course, a true samurai would never sully his name by serving heimin, and even the most powerful merchant would not be suicidal enough to ask. In ronin, the merchants found opportunity ~ a trained warrior without politica ties, willing to sacrifice honor to survive. Many ronin are so down on their luck that they eagerly aocept the ‘opportunity to serve a new master. So perhaps